22-year-old Belvoir author publishes third book

Belvoir family member Erik Estabrook recently published his third book of poetry titled "A Heart Cast in Verse." He says his newest book takes readers on a journey of the heart.

Estabrook has also published "Secrets of the Wild Wind," which speaks about nature with a bit of darker writing mixed in, and "Storms of Life," in which his poetry leaves readers contemplating life.

He wrote his first published poem at age 18 titled "Too Late to Remember." He said he found time to write the poem during study hall at Fort Leavenworth, Kan.
If publishing three books by age 22 isn't inspiring enough, Estabrook is also a clinically high-functioning autistic.

"I don't treat my disability as a hindrance, so I'm able to learn everyday how to overcome the challenges of my mind and person," he said. "I also understand there are people that have severe cases of my disability; but, with the children I've worked with, I realize what their disability has inhibited, their heart makes up for."

In addition to his poetry, Estabrook has a collection of more than 100 sculptures he has molded. He also loves to play basketball with his friends at Graves Gym.
Estabrook said his inspiration comes from many sources.

"I'm inspired by the [Exceptional Family Member Program] families [at] Fort Belvoir, that work with EFMP swimming," he said. "I have a lovely time helping as a volunteer and assisting them in their growth of the activities. I'm also inspired by the sacrifices my father has made for our family, and my mother's support of my poetry, and how she works for us. My brother's humor inspires me as well."

Estabrook signs his new book Sunday at Starbucks Coffee, 7696 Richmond Highway, from 8 to 11 a.m.